Darlene Jackson was born on April 11, 1945, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the union of Jessie Mae Cottingham and Aaron T. Mayo. She departed this life peacefully in her home on May 30, 2025, surrounded by the love and warmth of her family.

Darlene's early life was shaped by the strength and dedication of her father, who lovingly raised her and her two sisters after the passing of their beloved mother. Alongside them were Mrs. Hughes (fondly known as Grandma Hughes) and her granddaughter, Lida Hughes, who joined the Mayo girls to form a sisterhood rooted in deep affection and unity.

She attended Cincinnati Public Schools and graduated from Withrow High School in 1963. Darlene was not only an excellent student but also an accomplished athlete, earning several awards in tennis and volleyball during her school years.

Darlene married Nathaniel Jackson, and their union was blessed with two daughters, Rae Jean Mayo and Naima Jackson, who became the center of her world. Darlene was a god mother to Aaniesha London, Aaliyah London, Robert London, Delon London, Benjamin London, all of whom called her "MAMA RED."

In 1978, Darlene devoted her life to Christ at Southern Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. James E. Milton. Her faith journey was filled with service and joy—she was a Girl Scout Den mother, a dedicated member of the church choir (where she also served as a choir secretary), and sang with various gospel groups, including DP&C and The Cincinnati Chapter of the Gospel Coral Union.

Professionally, Darlene began her career as a paralegal working for several prominent law firms in the Greater Cincinnati area. Years later, Darlene joined The U.S. Shoe Corporation as an administrator. Her journey continued in radio broadcasting, where she worked with WBLZ-FM, WGRR-FM, and eventually The WIZ, where she served as Business Manager. After the sale of the station, she took her talents to the Central Community Health Board, where she served until her retirement in 2010.

Known affectionately as "THE QUEEN OF EVERYTHING," Darlene's joyful energy, radiant smile and boundless love left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was a pillar of strength, grace and compassion. Whether on the tennis court, in the choir stand, or at the family table, she brought people together with her light, her beautiful smile and unwavering kindness. Darlene enjoyed cooking, dancing, traveling and holidays with her family.  Her grandchildren meant the world to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jessie Mae Cottingham and Aaron T. Mayo; her sisters, Shirley Jean Robinson and Lida Bell Gentry; her niece, Jessie Mayo;  nephew, William Mayo;  great nephew, Charles Flagg;  great nieces, Monique Robinson and Deasa Robinson.  Lastly, she leaves her best friends, Carolyn London and Roslyn Himmons.

Her beautiful spirit will live on through her devoted daughters, Rae Jean Mayo and Naima Jackson; her loving sister, Elaine Patterson; seven grandchildren, Brittany Mayo, Erin Jackson, Khalil Jackson, Avian Mayo, Jaheem Mayo, Mason Mayo and Marley Mayo; one great-grandson Brayden Bradley; nieces, Lynn (Mark) Davis Sr. and Glenda (Montez Bryant) Robinson; nephews, Charles Robinson and Dondeago Mayo.  She will also be dearly missed by a host of great nieces, great nephews, family and friends, along with "Special" friends, Joyce Johson, Gloria Walker, Minister Willie Lovejoy Jr. and Aries Newton, who will all forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Darlene's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and family. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all those who were blessed to know her.